NHL's Bettman Says Devils' Finances Are "Stable" Despite Reports

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman yesterday said the Devils' finances are "stable and we remain optimistic about the future of the franchise," contradicting reports of financial distress. Bettman's comment "echoed one made" last week by Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly, while Devils President, CEO & GM Lou Lamoriello "would not comment on the team's financial state" after yesterday's NHL BOG meeting in N.Y. The team's ownership group is "in transition," as "new partners are being recruited" (Bergen RECORD, 6/28).